Late in the afternoon they both went back to the flat to get ready for dinner. So, are we going to that bar you mentioned?
The one with the poems on the walls?
Yes, that one.
Wait and see.
Jean-Luc stepped out into the living area to find Beverly waiting for him again. This time they both wore flowy evening attire appropriate to the occasion. Her hair had dried into effortless beach curls; his he had combed to a deep side part.
"Ready?" she asked. He nodded. They shared a smile. She threaded her arm through his and they forwarded out together. "Hopefully we get there early enough to find a good table – the views of the sunset are divine!" The light of golden hour shone off her hair, making it look like it was on fire.
Divine it may be, but not as much as you. Jean-Luc thought, taking in a deep breath. Her eyes met his for a moment. She was reading them, looking for something. He had no idea whether she'd found it when she spoke, "Dinner?"
He cleared his throat, breaking contact to gaze once more upon their path. "Yes, good idea." Lead the way.
Just through here, Beverly informed him, going off down an alley way. For a moment they were cast in blessed shadow, disguising any glances or blushing. Sound echoing off the cold brick, they suddenly felt like they were in a Dixon Hill story once more. Instinctively holding her that slightest bit closer, they went down the alley to where it branched off to another. On through the labyrinth they journeyed, seemingly impossibly far before they came across a staircase. With a glance at a sign so faded Jean-Luc wondered if it was even from their century, she was certain it was the right place. Up we go! She let go of his arm to lead the way up the staircase.
Are you sure? He halted, hesitant. She froze and turned her face up.
"Hear that?" she asked, spinning and raising a finger to point upwards. Jean-Luc listened intently. The soft hum of music greeted him. "That's where we're going." She turned on her heel and started upwards once more.
Wait, Beverly! He projected after her, but it was no use. Why does she have to run off like that! He surveyed the staircase with a huff before starting on his way up. After a few steps he hid a smile, catching a glimpse of her flowy skirt vanish around the landing above. Oh? A race then? Stretching his legs, he bounded up the stairs. Just in front of him, almost out of sight beyond a few short glimpses, Beverly leapt onwards with youthful glee radiating to him through their mental connection. Up and up they went, Jean-Luc laughing. The music became louder and louder until he could make out the words. Before he knew it, he was at the top, running headlong towards her. Careening into her, she wrapped her arms around him to stop him, twisting to the side, spinning with his momentum. The sunset light lit her with a golden glow, shadows dancing from her curls, down her neck, head tossed back with laughter.
God, I love you!
I love you too, she responded with surprising ease, their eyes meeting as they beamed, breathless.
What are we, Beverly? The question sunk heavily between them as soon as he'd thought it. Their smiles faded as the uncertainty within them both welled up. They did love each other, but could they love each other? Would they try? Were they trying, in that very moment?
Together. She moved closer, her arms moving to reach up his back, holding his shoulders. And that's what matters. Her forehead rested against his. For a brief moment they closed their eyes.
She doesn't understand it… and neither do I… but perhaps we shouldn't try to, yet, and just see how things turn out?
I like the sound of that, Beverly purred within his mind. He opened his eyes, her face right against his. Especially if we dance again tonight. Her eyes opened, going directly to his.
"Let's go inside and get a table," she murmured, letting him go.
"Mhm." He nodded. Their hands fell away from each other, stopping as their fingers touched. Taking his hand, Beverly glanced away with a shy smile and led the way inside.
A/N: Thanks to sash queen of the jungle and Erica for the reviews! I hope you all have a wonderful day! Please do leave a review!